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Getting Access to XOLAIR for Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria (CIU)
Sign the PAN FormFor XOLAIR Access Solutions to work with you, you must complete and submit the Patient Authorization and Notice of Release (PAN) form. Your doctor must also complete a form called the Statement of Medical Necessity (SMN) form. Once we have both the PAN and SMN forms, we can begin working with you and your doctor’s office.
Check CoverageXOLAIR Access Solutions can help you understand your health insurance coverage.
XOLAIR Access Solutions can find out:
• If your health insurance plan covers your medicine
• How much your co-pay will be
Verify InformationYour specialty pharmacy might call you. Make sure you return all calls from the specialty pharmacy. This helps them send your medicine on time.
What is a specialty pharmacy?A Specialty pharmacy (SP) supplies certain medicines for patients. Some plans require you to use a certain SP to receive your medicine. SPs send your medicine to your doctor’s office or your home. They may also offer other services, such as referrals to patient assistance.
What is XOLAIR?XOLAIR® (omalizumab) for subcutaneous use is an injectable prescription medicine used to treat adults and children 12 years of age and older with chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU; chronic hives without a known cause) who continue to have hives that are not controlled by H1 antihistamine treatment.
XOLAIR is not used to treat other forms of urticaria.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
What is the most important information I should know about XOLAIR?
A severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis can happen when you receive XOLAIR. The reaction can occur after the first dose, or after many doses. It may also occur right after a XOLAIR injection or days later. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening condition and can lead to death.
Please see accompanying full Prescribing Information, including Medication Guide, as well as additional Important Safety Information on pages 4-30.
Getting Access to XOLAIR for CIU (continued)
4 Ship XOLAIR to Injection Location Once you pay your co-pay, the *Specialty Pharmacy ships XOLAIR to the place where you tell them you will be treated. You will get a call to schedule an appointment for your treatment.
*Please note: Your XOLAIR might not come from a Specialty Pharmacy. Instead, your doctor might buy XOLAIR and get paid by your health plan for the cost of the medicine. This process is called “buy and bill.”
Patient Assistance ProgramsThere are options to help you get the medicine your doctor has prescribed. XOLAIR Access Solutions can refer you to patient assistance options.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION (continued)
Go to the nearest emergency room right away if you have any of these symptoms of an allergic reaction:
• wheezing, shortness of breath, cough, chest tightness, or trouble breathing
• low blood pressure, dizziness, fainting, rapid or weak heartbeat, anxiety, or feeling of “impending doom”
• flushing, itching, hives, or feeling warm
• swelling of the throat or tongue, throat tightness, hoarse voice, or trouble swallowing
Your healthcare provider will monitor you closely for symptoms of an allergic reaction while you are receiving XOLAIR and for a period of time after your injection. Your healthcare provider should talk to you about getting medical treatment if you have symptoms of an allergic reaction after leaving the healthcare provider’s office or treatment center.
Do not receive XOLAIR if you are allergic to omalizumab or any of the ingredients in XOLAIR.
Please see accompanying full Prescribing Information, including Medication Guide, as well as additional Important Safety Information on pages 4-30.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION (continued)
Before receiving XOLAIR, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:
• have ever had a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis
• have or have had a parasitic infection
• have or have had cancer
• are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if XOLAIR may harm your unborn baby.
• are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if XOLAIR passes into your breast milk. Talk with your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby while you receive XOLAIR.
Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, or herbal supplements.
How should I receive XOLAIR?
• XOLAIR should be given by your healthcare provider, in a healthcare setting.
• XOLAIR is given in 1 or more injections under the skin (subcutaneous), 1 time every 4 weeks.
• In patients with chronic hives, a blood test is not necessary to determine the dose or dosing frequency.
• Do not decrease or stop taking any of your other hive medicine unless your healthcare providers tell you to.
• You may not see improvement in your symptoms right away after XOLAIR treatment.
What are the possible side effects of XOLAIR?XOLAIR may cause serious side effects, including:
• See, “What is the most important information I should know about XOLAIR” regarding the risk of anaphylaxis.
• Cancer. Cases of cancer were observed in some people who received XOLAIR.
• Fever, muscle aches, and rash. Some people who take XOLAIR get these symptoms 1 to 5 days after receiving a XOLAIR injection. If you have any of these symptoms, tell your healthcare provider.
• Parasitic infection. Some people who are at a high risk for parasite (worm) infections, get a parasite infection after receiving XOLAIR. Your healthcare provider can test your stool to check if you have a parasite infection.
• Heart and circulation problems. Some people who receive XOLAIR have had chest pain, heart attack, blood clots in the lungs or legs, or temporary symptoms of weakness on one side of the body, slurred speech, or altered vision. It is not known whether this is caused by XOLAIR.
The most common side effects of XOLAIR:
• In people with chronic idiopathic urticaria: nausea, headaches, swelling of the inside of your nose, throat or sinuses, cough, joint pain, and upper respiratory tract infection.
These are not all the possible side effects of XOLAIR. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to the FDA at (800) FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. You may also report side effects to Genentech at (888) 835-2555 or Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation at 888-669-6682.
©2017 Genentech USA, Inc. and Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation. All rights reserved. This document is intended for US residents only. XOL/020717/0023a
Please see accompanying full Prescribing Information, including Medication Guide, as well as additional Important Safety Information on pages 4-30.
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HIGHLIGHTS OF PRESCRIBING INFORMATION
These highlights do not include all the information needed to use
XOLAIR safely and effectively. See full prescribing information for
XOLAIR.
XOLAIR® (omalizumab) for injection, for subcutaneous use
Initial U.S. Approval: 2003
---------------------------RECENT MAJOR CHANGES---------------------------
Indications and Usage (1.1) 07/2016
Dosage and Administration (2.1)
07/2016
----------------------------INDICATIONS AND USAGE---------------------------
Xolair is an anti-IgE antibody indicated for:
Moderate to severe persistent asthma in patients 6 years of age and older with a positive skin test or in vitro reactivity to a perennial aeroallergen
and symptoms that are inadequately controlled with inhaled corticosteroids (1.1)
Chronic idiopathic urticaria in adults and adolescents 12 years of age and
older who remain symptomatic despite H1 antihistamine treatment (1.2)
Limitations of use:
Not indicated for other allergic conditions or other forms of urticaria. (1.1, 1.2,)
Not indicated for acute bronchospasm or status asthmaticus. (1.1, 5.3)
-----------------------DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION-----------------------
For subcutaneous (SC) administration only. (2.1, 2.2)
Divide doses of more than 150 mg among more than one injection site to limit
injections to not more than 150 mg per site. (2.4)
Asthma: Xolair 75 to 375 mg SC every 2 or 4 weeks. Determine
dose (mg) and dosing frequency by serum total IgE level (IU/mL), measured before the start of treatment, and body weight (kg). See the
dose determination charts. (2.1)
Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria: Xolair 150 or 300 mg SC every 4 weeks. Dosing in CIU is not dependent on serum IgE level or body weight. (2.2)
----------------------DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS---------------------
For injection: Lyophilized, sterile powder in a single-use vial, 150 mg. (3)
------------------------------CONTRAINDICATIONS-------------------------------
Severe hypersensitivity reaction to Xolair or any ingredient of Xolair. (4, 5.1)
-----------------------WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS------------------------
Anaphylaxis: Administer only in a healthcare setting prepared to manage
anaphylaxis that can be life-threatening and observe patients for an
appropriate period of time after administration. (5.1)
Malignancy: Malignancies have been observed in clinical studies. (5.2)
Acute Asthma Symptoms: Do not use for the treatment of acute bronchospasm or status asthmaticus. (5.3)
Corticosteroid Reduction: Do not abruptly discontinue corticosteroids upon initiation of Xolair therapy. (5.4)
Fever, Arthralgia, and Rash: Stop Xolair if patients develop signs and symptoms similar to serum sickness. (5.6)
Eosinophilic Conditions: Be alert to eosinophilia, vasculitic rash, worsening pulmonary symptoms, cardiac complications, and/or
neuropathy, especially upon reduction of oral corticosteroids. (5.5)
------------------------------ADVERSE REACTIONS------------------------------
Asthma: The most common adverse reactions in clinical studies with
adult and adolescent patients ≥12 years of age were arthralgia, pain (general), leg pain, fatigue, dizziness, fracture, arm pain, pruritus,
dermatitis, and earache. In clinical studies with pediatric patients 6 to <12
years of age, the most common adverse reactions were nasopharyngitis, headache, pyrexia, upper abdominal pain, pharyngitis streptococcal, otitis
media, viral gastroenteritis, arthropod bites, and epistaxis. (6.1)
Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria: The most common adverse reactions (2% Xolair-treated patients and more frequent than in placebo) included the
following: nausea, nasopharyngitis, sinusitis, upper respiratory tract
infection, viral upper respiratory tract infection, arthralgia, headache, and cough. (6.1)
To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Genentech at
1-888-835-2555 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.
-------------------------------DRUG INTERACTIONS-----------------------------
No formal drug interaction studies have been performed. (7)
See 17 for PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION and Medication
Guide.
Revised: 6/2017
FULL PRESCRIBING INFORMATION: CONTENTS*
WARNING: ANAPHYLAXIS
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE
1.1 Asthma
1.2 Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria (CIU)
2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION
2.1 Dosage for Asthma
2.2 Dosage for Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria
2.3 Reconstitution 2.4 Administration
3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS
4 CONTRAINDICATIONS
5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS
5.1 Anaphylaxis
5.2 Malignancy 5.3 Acute Asthma Symptoms
5.4 Corticosteroid Reduction
5.5 Eosinophilic Conditions 5.6 Fever, Arthralgia, and Rash
5.7 Parasitic (Helminth) Infection
5.8 Laboratory Tests
6 ADVERSE REACTIONS
6.1 Clinical Trials Experience
6.2 Immunogenicity 6.3 Postmarketing Experience
7 DRUG INTERACTIONS
8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS
8.1 Pregnancy 8.2 Lactation
8.4 Pediatric Use
8.5 Geriatric Use
10 OVERDOSAGE
11 DESCRIPTION
12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY
12.1 Mechanism of Action
12.2 Pharmacodynamics
12.3 Pharmacokinetics
13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY
13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility
14 CLINICAL STUDIES
14.1 Asthma
14.2 Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria
16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING
17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION
* Sections or subsections omitted from the full prescribing information are not listed.
WARNING: ANAPHYLAXIS
See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning.
Anaphylaxis, presenting as bronchospasm, hypotension, syncope,
urticaria, and/or angioedema of the throat or tongue, has been
reported to occur after administration of Xolair. Anaphylaxis has
occurred after the first dose of Xolair but also has occurred beyond
1 year after beginning treatment. Closely observe patients for an
appropriate period of time after Xolair administration and be
prepared to manage anaphylaxis that can be life-threatening. Inform
patients of the signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis and have them seek
immediate medical care should symptoms occur. (5.1)
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FULL PRESCRIBING INFORMATION
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE
1.1 Asthma
Xolair is indicated for patients 6 years of age and older with moderate to severe persistent
asthma who have a positive skin test or in vitro reactivity to a perennial aeroallergen and
whose symptoms are inadequately controlled with inhaled corticosteroids.
Xolair has been shown to decrease the incidence of asthma exacerbations in these patients.
Limitations of Use:
Xolair is not indicated for the relief of acute bronchospasm or status asthmaticus.
Xolair is not indicated for treatment of other allergic conditions.
1.2 Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria (CIU) Xolair is indicated for the treatment of adults and adolescents 12 years of age and older with chronic idiopathic urticaria who remain symptomatic despite H1 antihistamine treatment.
Limitation of Use:
Xolair is not indicated for treatment of other forms of urticaria.
2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION
2.1 Dosage for Asthma
Administer Xolair 75 to 375 mg by subcutaneous injection every 2 or 4 weeks. Determine
dose (mg) and dosing frequency by serum total IgE level (IU/mL) measured before the start
of treatment, and by body weight (kg).
Adjust doses for significant changes in body weight during treatment (see Table 1, 2 and 3).
WARNING: ANAPHYLAXIS
Anaphylaxis presenting as bronchospasm, hypotension, syncope, urticaria, and/or
angioedema of the throat or tongue, has been reported to occur after administration
of Xolair. Anaphylaxis has occurred as early as after the first dose of Xolair, but
also has occurred beyond 1 year after beginning regularly administered treatment.
Because of the risk of anaphylaxis, observe patients closely for an appropriate period
of time after Xolair administration. Health care providers administering Xolair
should be prepared to manage anaphylaxis that can be life-threatening. Inform
patients of the signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis and instruct them to seek
immediate medical care should symptoms occur [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)
and Adverse Reactions (6.1, 6.3)].
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Total IgE levels are elevated during treatment and remain elevated for up to one year after
the discontinuation of treatment. Therefore, re-testing of IgE levels during Xolair treatment
cannot be used as a guide for dose determination.
Interruptions lasting less than one year: Dose based on serum IgE levels obtained at
the initial dose determination.
Interruptions lasting one year or more: Re-test total serum IgE levels for dose
determination using Table 1, 2, or 3 based on the patient’s age.
Periodically reassess the need for continued therapy based upon the patient’s disease severity
and level of asthma control.
Adult and adolescent patients 12 years of age and older: Initiate dosing according to Table 1
or 2.
Table 1. Subcutaneous Xolair Doses Every 4 Weeks for Patients 12
Years of Age and Older with Asthma
Pre-treatment
Serum IgE
Body Weight
30−60 kg > 60−70 kg > 70−90 kg > 90−150 kg
≥ 30−100 IU/mL 150 mg 150 mg 150 mg 300 mg
> 100−200 IU/mL 300 mg 300 mg 300 mg
> 200−300 IU/mL 300 mg
> 300−400 IU/mL SEE TABLE 2
> 400−500 IU/mL
> 500−600 IU/mL
Table 2. Subcutaneous Xolair Doses Every 2 Weeks for Patients 12 Years
of Age and Older with Asthma
Pre-treatment
Serum IgE
Body Weight
30−60 kg > 60−70 kg > 70−90 kg > 90−150 kg
30−100 IU/mL SEE TABLE 1
> 100−200 IU/mL 225 mg
> 200−300 IU/mL 225 mg 225 mg 300 mg
> 300−400 IU/mL 225 mg 225 mg 300 mg
> 400−500 IU/mL 300 mg 300 mg 375mg
> 500−600 IU/mL 300 mg 375 mg DO NOT DOSE
> 600−700 IU/mL 375 mg
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Pediatric patients 6 to <12 years of age: Initiate dosing according to Table 3.
Table 3. Subcutaneous Xolair Doses Every 2 or 4 Weeks* for Pediatric Patients with Asthma Who Begin Xolair Between the Ages of 6 to <12 Years
Pre-treatment
Serum IgE
(IU/mL)
Dosing
Freq.
Body Weight
20-25
kg
>25-30
kg
>30-40
kg
>40-50
kg
>50-60
kg
>60-70
kg
>70-80
kg
>80-90
kg
>90-125
kg
>125-150
kg
Dose (mg)
30-100
Every
4
weeks
75 75 75 150 150 150 150 150 300 300
>100-200 150 150 150 300 300 300 300 300 225 300
>200-300 150 150 225 300 300 225 225 225 300 375
>300-400 225 225 300 225 225 225 300 300
>400-500 225 300 225 225 300 300 375 375
>500-600 300 300 225 300 300 375
>600-700 300 225 225 300 375
>700-800
Every
2
weeks
225 225 300 375
DO NOT DOSE
>800-900 225 225 300 375
>900-1000 225 300 375
>1000-1100 225 300 375
>1100-1200 300 300
>1200-1300 300 375
2.2 Dosage for Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria
Administer Xolair 150 or 300 mg by subcutaneous injection every 4 weeks.
Dosing of Xolair in CIU patients is not dependent on serum IgE (free or total) level or body
weight.
The appropriate duration of therapy for CIU has not been evaluated. Periodically reassess
the need for continued therapy.
2.3 Reconstitution
The supplied Xolair lyophilized powder must be reconstituted with Sterile Water for
Injection (SWFI) USP, using the following instructions:
1) Before reconstitution, determine the number of vials that will need to be reconstituted
(each vial delivers 150 mg of Xolair in 1.2 mL) (see Table 4).
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2) Draw 1.4 mL of SWFI, USP, into a 3 mL syringe equipped with a 1 inch, 18-gauge
needle.
3) Place the vial upright on a flat surface and using standard aseptic technique, insert the
needle and inject the SWFI, USP, directly onto the product.
4) Keeping the vial upright, gently swirl the upright vial for approximately 1 minute to
evenly wet the powder. Do not shake.
5) Gently swirl the vial for 5 to 10 seconds approximately every 5 minutes in order to
dissolve any remaining solids. The lyophilized product takes 15 to 20 minutes to
dissolve. If it takes longer than 20 minutes to dissolve completely, gently swirl the vial
for 5 to 10 seconds approximately every 5 minutes until there are no visible gel-like
particles in the solution. Do not use if the contents of the vial do not dissolve
completely by 40 minutes.
6) After reconstitution, Xolair solution is somewhat viscous and will appear clear or
slightly opalescent. It is acceptable if there are a few small bubbles or foam around the
edge of the vial; there should be no visible gel-like particles in the reconstituted
solution. Do not use if foreign particles are present.
7) Invert the vial for 15 seconds in order to allow the solution to drain toward the stopper.
8) Use the Xolair solution within 8 hours following reconstitution when stored in the
vial at 2 to 8ºC (36 to 46ºF), or within 4 hours of reconstitution when stored at
room temperature. Reconstituted Xolair vials should be protected from sunlight.
9) Using a new 3 mL syringe equipped with a 1-inch, 18-gauge needle, insert the needle
into the inverted vial. Position the needle tip at the very bottom of the solution in the
vial stopper when drawing the solution into the syringe. The reconstituted product is
somewhat viscous. Withdraw all of the product from the vial before expelling any
air or excess solution from the syringe. Before removing the needle from the vial, pull
the plunger all the way back to the end of the syringe barrel in order to remove all of
the solution from the inverted vial.
10) Replace the 18-gauge needle with a 25-gauge needle for subcutaneous injection.
11) Expel air, large bubbles, and any excess solution in order to obtain a volume of 1.2 mL
corresponding to a dose of 150 mg of Xolair. To obtain a volume of 0.6 mL
corresponding to a dose of 75 mg of Xolair, expel air, large bubbles and discard 0.6 mL
from the syringe. A thin layer of small bubbles may remain at the top of the solution in
the syringe.
2.4 Administration
Administer Xolair by subcutaneous injection. The injection may take 5-10 seconds to
administer because the solution is slightly viscous. Do not administer more than 150 mg
(contents of one vial) per injection site. Divide doses of more than 150 mg among two or
more injection sites (Table 4).
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Table 4. Number of Vials, Injections and Total Injection Volumes
Xolair Dose* Number of vials Number of Injections Total Volume Injected
75 mg 1 1 0.6 mL
150 mg 1 1 1.2 mL
225 mg 2 2 1.8 mL
300 mg 2 2 2.4 mL
375mg 3 3 3.0 mL
*All doses in the table are approved for use in asthma patients. The
150 mg and 300 mg Xolair doses are intended for use in CIU patients.
3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS
For injection: 150 mg of omalizumab as lyophilized, sterile powder in a single-use vial.
4 CONTRAINDICATIONS
The use of Xolair is contraindicated in the following:
Severe hypersensitivity reaction to Xolair or any ingredient of Xolair [see Warnings and
Precautions (5.1)].
5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS
5.1 Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis has been reported to occur after administration of Xolair in premarketing
clinical trials and in postmarketing spontaneous reports [see Boxed Warning and Adverse
Reactions (6.3)]. Signs and symptoms in these reported cases have included bronchospasm,
hypotension, syncope, urticaria, and/or angioedema of the throat or tongue. Some of these
events have been life-threatening. In premarketing clinical trials in patients with asthma,
anaphylaxis was reported in 3 of 3507 (0.1%) patients. Anaphylaxis occurred with the first
dose of Xolair in two patients and with the fourth dose in one patient. The time to onset of
anaphylaxis was 90 minutes after administration in two patients and 2 hours after
administration in one patient.
A case-control study showed that, among Xolair users, patients with a history of anaphylaxis
to foods, medications, or other causes were at increased risk of anaphylaxis associated with
Xolair, compared to those with no prior history of anaphylaxis [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].
In postmarketing spontaneous reports, the frequency of anaphylaxis attributed to Xolair use
was estimated to be at least 0.2% of patients based on an estimated exposure of about 57,300
patients from June 2003 through December 2006. Anaphylaxis has occurred as early as after
the first dose of Xolair, but also has occurred beyond one year after beginning regularly
scheduled treatment.
Administer Xolair only in a healthcare setting by healthcare providers prepared to manage
anaphylaxis that can be life-threatening. Observe patients closely for an appropriate period
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of time after administration of Xolair, taking into account the time to onset of anaphylaxis
seen in premarketing clinical trials and postmarketing spontaneous reports [see Adverse
Reactions (6)]. Inform patients of the signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis, and instruct them
to seek immediate medical care should signs or symptoms occur.
Discontinue Xolair in patients who experience a severe hypersensitivity reaction
[see Contraindications (4)].
5.2 Malignancy
Malignant neoplasms were observed in 20 of 4127 (0.5%) Xolair-treated patients compared
with 5 of 2236 (0.2%) control patients in clinical studies of adults and adolescents ≥ 12 years
of age with asthma and other allergic disorders. The observed malignancies in Xolair-treated
patients were a variety of types, with breast, non-melanoma skin, prostate, melanoma, and
parotid occurring more than once, and five other types occurring once each. The majority of
patients were observed for less than 1 year. The impact of longer exposure to Xolair or use
in patients at higher risk for malignancy (e.g., elderly, current smokers) is not known.
In a subsequent observational study of 5007 Xolair-treated and 2829 non-Xolair-treated
adolescent and adult patients with moderate to severe persistent asthma and a positive skin
test reaction or in vitro reactivity to a perennial aeroallergen, patients were followed for up to
5 years. In this study, the incidence rates of primary malignancies (per 1000 patient years)
were similar among Xolair-treated (12.3) and non-Xolair-treated patients (13.0) [see Adverse
Reactions (6)]. However, study limitations preclude definitively ruling out a malignancy risk
with Xolair. Study limitations include: the observational study design, the bias introduced by
allowing enrollment of patients previously exposed to Xolair (88%), enrollment of patients
(56%) while a history of cancer or a premalignant condition were study exclusion criteria,
and the high study discontinuation rate (44%).
5.3 Acute Asthma Symptoms
Xolair has not been shown to alleviate asthma exacerbations acutely. Do not use Xolair to
treat acute bronchospasm or status asthmaticus.
5.4 Corticosteroid Reduction
Do not discontinue systemic or inhaled corticosteroids abruptly upon initiation of Xolair
therapy for asthma. Decrease corticosteroids gradually under the direct supervision of a
physician. In CIU patients, the use of Xolair in combination with corticosteroids has not
been evaluated.
5.5 Eosinophilic Conditions
In rare cases, patients with asthma on therapy with Xolair may present with serious systemic
eosinophilia sometimes presenting with clinical features of vasculitis consistent with Churg-
Strauss syndrome, a condition which is often treated with systemic corticosteroid therapy.
These events usually, but not always, have been associated with the reduction of oral
corticosteroid therapy. Physicians should be alert to eosinophilia, vasculitic rash, worsening
pulmonary symptoms, cardiac complications, and/or neuropathy presenting in their patients.
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A causal association between Xolair and these underlying conditions has not been
established.
5.6 Fever, Arthralgia, and Rash
In post-approval use, some patients have experienced a constellation of signs and symptoms
including arthritis/arthralgia, rash, fever and lymphadenopathy with an onset 1 to 5 days after
the first or subsequent injections of Xolair. These signs and symptoms have recurred after
additional doses in some patients. Although circulating immune complexes or a skin biopsy
consistent with a Type III reaction were not seen with these cases, these signs and symptoms
are similar to those seen in patients with serum sickness. Physicians should stop Xolair if a
patient develops this constellation of signs and symptoms [see Adverse Reactions (6.3)].
5.7 Parasitic (Helminth) Infection
Monitor patients at high risk of geohelminth infection while on Xolair therapy. Insufficient
data are available to determine the length of monitoring required for geohelminth infections
after stopping Xolair treatment.
In a one-year clinical trial conducted in Brazil in adult and adolescent patients at high risk for
geohelminthic infections (roundworm, hookworm, whipworm, threadworm), 53% (36/68) of
Xolair-treated patients experienced an infection, as diagnosed by standard stool examination,
compared to 42% (29/69) of placebo controls. The point estimate of the odds ratio for
infection was 1.96, with a 95% confidence interval (0.88, 4.36) indicating that in this study a
patient who had an infection was anywhere from 0.88 to 4.36 times as likely to have received
Xolair than a patient who did not have an infection. Response to appropriate anti-
geohelminth treatment of infection as measured by stool egg counts was not different
between treatment groups.
5.8 Laboratory Tests
Serum total IgE levels increase following administration of Xolair due to formation of
Xolair:IgE complexes [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.2)]. Elevated serum total IgE levels
may persist for up to 1 year following discontinuation of Xolair. Do not use serum total IgE
levels obtained less than 1 year following discontinuation to reassess the dosing regimen for
asthma patients, because these levels may not reflect steady state free IgE levels [see Dosage
and Administration (2.1)].
6 ADVERSE REACTIONS
Use of Xolair has been associated with:
Anaphylaxis [see Boxed Warning and Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]
Malignancies [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]
6.1 Clinical Trials Experience
Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates
observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical
trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in clinical practice.
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Adverse Reactions from Clinical Studies in Adult and Adolescent Patients 12 Years of Age
and Older with Asthma
The data described below reflect Xolair exposure for 2076 adult and adolescent patients ages
12 and older, including 1687 patients exposed for six months and 555 exposed for one year
or more, in either placebo-controlled or other controlled asthma studies. The mean age of
patients receiving Xolair was 42 years, with 134 patients 65 years of age or older; 60% were
women, and 85% Caucasian. Patients received Xolair 150 to 375 mg every 2 or 4 weeks or,
for patients assigned to control groups, standard therapy with or without a placebo.
The adverse events most frequently resulting in clinical intervention (e.g., discontinuation of
Xolair, or the need for concomitant medication to treat an adverse event) were injection site
reaction (45%), viral infections (23%), upper respiratory tract infection (20%), sinusitis
(16%), headache (15%), and pharyngitis (11%). These events were observed at similar rates
in Xolair-treated patients and control patients.
Table 5 shows adverse reactions from four placebo-controlled asthma trials that
occurred ≥ 1% and more frequently in adult and adolescent patients 12 years of age and older
receiving Xolair than in those receiving placebo. Adverse events were classified using
preferred terms from the International Medical Nomenclature (IMN) dictionary. Injection
site reactions were recorded separately from the reporting of other adverse events.
Table 5. Adverse Reactions ≥ 1% More Frequent in
Xolair-Treated Adult or Adolescent Patients 12 years of Age and
Older in Four Placebo-controlled Asthma Trials
Adverse reaction
Xolair
n = 738
Placebo
n = 717
Body as a whole
Pain 7% 5%
Fatigue 3% 2%
Musculoskeletal system
Arthralgia 8% 6%
Fracture 2% 1%
Leg pain 4% 2%
Arm pain 2% 1%
Nervous system
Dizziness 3% 2%
Skin and appendages
Pruritus 2% 1%
Dermatitis 2% 1%
Special senses
Earache 2% 1%
10
There were no differences in the incidence of adverse reactions based on age (among patients
under 65), gender or race.
Anaphylaxis Case Control Study
A retrospective case-control study investigated risk factors for anaphylaxis to Xolair among
patients treated with Xolair for asthma. Cases with an adjudicated history of anaphylaxis to
Xolair were compared to controls with no such history. The study found that a self-reported
history of anaphylaxis to foods, medications or other causes was more common among
patients with Xolair anaphylaxis (57% of 30 cases) compared to controls (23% of 88
controls) [OR 8.1, 95% CI 2.7 to 24.3]. Because this is a case control study, the study cannot
provide the incidence of anaphylaxis among Xolair users. From other sources, anaphylaxis to
Xolair was observed in 0.1% of patients in clinical trials and at least 0.2% of patients based
upon postmarketing reports [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1), Adverse Reactions (6.3)].
Injection Site Reactions
In adults and adolescents, injection site reactions of any severity occurred at a rate of 45% in
Xolair-treated patients compared with 43% in placebo-treated patients. The types of
injection site reactions included: bruising, redness, warmth, burning, stinging, itching, hive
formation, pain, indurations, mass, and inflammation.
Severe injection site reactions occurred more frequently in Xolair-treated patients compared
with patients in the placebo group (12% versus 9%).
The majority of injection site reactions occurred within 1 hour-post injection, lasted less than
8 days, and generally decreased in frequency at subsequent dosing visits.
Adverse Reactions from Clinical Studies in Pediatric Patients 6 to <12 Years of Age with
Asthma
The data described below reflect Xolair exposure for 926 patients 6 to < 12 years of age,
including 583 patients exposed for six months and 292 exposed for one year or more, in
either placebo-controlled or other controlled asthma studies. The mean age of pediatric
patients receiving Xolair was 8.8 years; 69% were male, and 64% were Caucasian. Pediatric
patients received Xolair 75 mg to 375 mg every 2 or 4 weeks or, for patients assigned to
control groups, standard therapy with or without a placebo. No cases of malignancy were
reported in patients treated with Xolair in these trials. The most common adverse reactions occurring at ≥3% in the pediatric patients receiving
Xolair and more frequently than in patients treated with placebo were nasopharyngitis,
headache, pyrexia, upper abdominal pain, pharyngitis streptococcal, otitis media, viral
gastroenteritis, arthropod bite, and epistaxis. The adverse events most frequently resulting in clinical intervention (e.g., discontinuation of
Xolair, or the need for concomitant medication to treat an adverse event) were bronchitis
(0.2%), headache (0.2%) and urticaria (0.2%). These events were observed at similar rates in
Xolair-treated patients and control patients.
11
Adverse Reactions from Clinical Studies in Patients with Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria (CIU)
The safety of Xolair for the treatment of CIU was assessed in three placebo-controlled,
multiple-dose clinical trials of 12 weeks’ (CIU Trial 2) and 24 weeks’ duration (CIU Trials 1
and 3). In CIU Trials 1 and 2, patients received Xolair 75, 150, or 300 mg or placebo every 4
weeks in addition to their baseline level of H1 antihistamine therapy throughout the treatment
period. In CIU Trial 3 patients were randomized to Xolair 300 mg or placebo every 4 weeks
in addition to their baseline level of H1 antihistamine therapy. The data described below
reflect Xolair exposure for 733 patients enrolled and receiving at least one dose of Xolair in
the three clinical trials, including 684 patients exposed for 12 weeks and 427 exposed for 24
weeks. The mean age of patients receiving Xolair 300 mg was 43 years, 75% were women,
and 89% were white. The demographic profiles for patients receiving Xolair 150 mg and
75 mg were similar.
Table 6 shows adverse reactions that occurred in ≥ 2% of patients receiving Xolair (150 or
300 mg) and more frequently than those receiving placebo. Adverse reactions are pooled
from Trial 2 and the first 12 weeks of Trials 1 and 3.
Table 6. Adverse Reactions Occurring in ≥2% in Xolair-Treated Patients and More
Frequently than in Patients Treated with Placebo (Day 1 to Week 12) in CIU Trials
Adverse Reactions*
CIU Trials 1, 2 and 3 Pooled
150mg
(n=175)
300mg
(n=412)
Placebo
(n=242)
Gastrointestinal disorders
Nausea 2 (1.1%) 11 (2.7%) 6 (2.5%)
Infections and infestations
Nasopharyngitis 16 (9.1%) 27 (6.6%) 17 (7.0%)
Sinusitis 2 (1.1%) 20 (4.9%) 5 (2.1%)
Upper respiratory tract infection 2 (1.1%) 14 (3.4%) 5 (2.1%)
Viral upper respiratory tract infection 4 (2.3%) 2 (0.5%) (0.0%)
Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders
Arthralgia 5 (2.9%) 12 (2.9%) 1 (0.4%)
Nervous system disorders
Headache 21 (12.0%) 25 (6.1%) 7 (2.9%)
Respiratory, thoracic, and mediastinal disorders
Cough 2 (1.1%) 9 (2.2%) 3 (1.2%)
* by MedDRA (15.1) System Organ Class and Preferred Term
Additional reactions reported during the 24 week treatment period in Trials 1 and 3 [≥2% of
patients receiving Xolair (150 or 300 mg) and more frequently than those receiving placebo]
included: toothache, fungal infection, urinary tract infection, myalgia, pain in extremity,
musculoskeletal pain, peripheral edema, pyrexia, migraine, sinus headache, anxiety,
oropharyngeal pain, asthma, urticaria, and alopecia.
12
Injection Site Reactions
Injection site reactions of any severity occurred during the studies in more Xolair-treated
patients [11 patients (2.7%) at 300 mg, 1 patient (0.6%) at 150 mg] compared with 2
placebo-treated patients (0.8%). The types of injection site reactions included: swelling,
erythema, pain, bruising, itching, bleeding and urticaria. None of the events resulted in study
discontinuation or treatment interruption.
Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Events from Clinical Studies in Patients with Asthma
A 5-year observational cohort study was conducted in patients ≥ 12 years of age with
moderate to severe persistent asthma and a positive skin test reaction to a perennial
aeroallergen to evaluate the long term safety of Xolair, including the risk of malignancy [see
Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]. A total of 5007 Xolair-treated and 2829 non-Xolair-
treated patients enrolled in the study. Similar percentages of patients in both cohorts were
current (5%) or former smokers (29%). Patients had a mean age of 45 years and were
followed for a mean of 3.7 years. More Xolair-treated patients were diagnosed with severe
asthma (50%) compared to the non-Xolair-treated patients (23%) and 44% of patients
prematurely discontinued the study. Additionally, 88% of patients in the Xolair-treated
cohort had been previously exposed to Xolair for a mean of 8 months.
A higher incidence rate (per 1000 patient-years) of overall cardiovascular and
cerebrovascular serious adverse events (SAEs) was observed in Xolair-treated patients (13.4)
compared to non-Xolair-treated patients (8.1). Increases in rates were observed for transient
ischemic attack (0.7 versus 0.1), myocardial infarction (2.1 versus 0.8), pulmonary
hypertension (0.5 versus 0), pulmonary embolism/venous thrombosis (3.2 versus 1.5), and
unstable angina (2.2 versus 1.4), while the rates observed for ischemic stroke and
cardiovascular death were similar among both study cohorts. The results suggest a potential
increased risk of serious cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events in patients treated with
Xolair. However, the observational study design, the inclusion of patients previously
exposed to Xolair (88%), baseline imbalances in cardiovascular risk factors between the
treatment groups, an inability to adjust for unmeasured risk factors, and the high study
discontinuation rate limit the ability to quantify the magnitude of the risk.
A pooled analysis of 25 randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials of 8 to 52
weeks in duration was conducted to further evaluate the imbalance in cardiovascular and
cerebrovascular SAEs noted in the above observational cohort study. A total of 3342 Xolair-
treated patients and 2895 placebo-treated patients were included in the pooled analysis. The
patients had a mean age of 38 years, and were followed for a mean duration of 6.8 months.
No notable imbalances were observed in the rates of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular
SAEs listed above. However, the results of the pooled analysis were based on a low number
of events, slightly younger patients, and shorter duration of follow-up than the observational
cohort study; therefore, the results are insufficient to confirm or reject the findings noted in
the observational cohort study.
13
6.2 Immunogenicity
Antibodies to Xolair were detected in approximately 1/1723 (< 0.1%) of patients treated with
Xolair in the clinical studies evaluated for approval of asthma in patients 12 years of age and
older. In three pediatric studies, antibodies to Xolair were detected in one patient out of 581
patients 6 to <12 years of age treated with Xolair and evaluated for antibodies. There were
no detectable antibodies in the patients treated in the phase 3 CIU clinical trials, but due to
levels of Xolair at the time of anti-therapeutic antibody sampling and missing samples for
some patients, antibodies to Xolair could only have been determined in 88% of the 733
patients treated in these clinical studies. The data reflect the percentage of patients whose
test results were considered positive for antibodies to Xolair in ELISA assays and are highly
dependent on the sensitivity and specificity of the assays. Additionally, the observed
incidence of antibody positivity in the assay may be influenced by several factors including
sample handling, timing of sample collection, concomitant medications, and underlying
disease. Therefore, comparison of the incidence of antibodies to Xolair with the incidence of
antibodies to other products may be misleading.
6.3 Postmarketing Experience
The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of Xolair in
adult and adolescent patients 12 years of age and older. Because these reactions are reported
voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate
their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.
Anaphylaxis: Based on spontaneous reports and an estimated exposure of about
57,300 patients from June 2003 through December 2006, the frequency of anaphylaxis
attributed to Xolair use was estimated to be at least 0.2% of patients. Diagnostic criteria of
anaphylaxis were skin or mucosal tissue involvement, and, either airway compromise, and/or
reduced blood pressure with or without associated symptoms, and a temporal relationship to
Xolair administration with no other identifiable cause. Signs and symptoms in these reported
cases included bronchospasm, hypotension, syncope, urticaria, angioedema of the throat or
tongue, dyspnea, cough, chest tightness, and/or cutaneous angioedema. Pulmonary
involvement was reported in 89% of the cases. Hypotension or syncope was reported in 14%
of cases. Fifteen percent of the reported cases resulted in hospitalization. A previous history
of anaphylaxis unrelated to Xolair was reported in 24% of the cases.
Of the reported cases of anaphylaxis attributed to Xolair, 39% occurred with the first dose,
19% occurred with the second dose, 10% occurred with the third dose, and the rest after
subsequent doses. One case occurred after 39 doses (after 19 months of continuous therapy,
anaphylaxis occurred when treatment was restarted following a 3 month gap). The time to
onset of anaphylaxis in these cases was up to 30 minutes in 35%, greater than 30 and up to 60
minutes in 16%, greater than 60 and up to 90 minutes in 2%, greater than 90 and up to 120
minutes in 6%, greater than 2 hours and up to 6 hours in 5%, greater than 6 hours and up to
12 hours in 14%, greater than 12 hours and up to 24 hours in 8%, and greater than 24 hours
and up to 4 days in 5%. In 9% of cases the times to onset were unknown.
14
Twenty-three patients who experienced anaphylaxis were rechallenged with Xolair and 18
patients had a recurrence of similar symptoms of anaphylaxis. In addition, anaphylaxis
occurred upon rechallenge with Xolair in 4 patients who previously experienced urticaria
only.
Eosinophilic Conditions: Eosinophilic conditions have been reported [see Warnings and
Precautions (5.5)].
Fever, Arthralgia, and Rash: A constellation of signs and symptoms including
arthritis/arthralgia, rash (urticaria or other forms), fever and lymphadenopathy similar to
serum sickness have been reported in post-approval use of Xolair [see Warnings and
Precautions (5.6)].
Hematologic: Severe thrombocytopenia has been reported.
Skin: Hair loss has been reported.
7 DRUG INTERACTIONS
No formal drug interaction studies have been performed with Xolair.
In patients with asthma the concomitant use of Xolair and allergen immunotherapy has not
been evaluated.
In patients with CIU the use of Xolair in combination with immunosuppressive therapies has
not been studied.
8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS
8.1 Pregnancy
Risk Summary
The data with XOLAIR use in pregnant women are insufficient to inform on drug associated
risk. Monoclonal antibodies, such as omalizumab, are transported across the placenta in a
linear fashion as pregnancy progresses; therefore, potential effects on a fetus are likely to be
greater during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy.
In animal reproduction studies, no evidence of fetal harm was observed in Cynomolgus
monkeys with subcutaneous doses of omalizumab up to approximately 10 times the
maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) [see Animal Data].
In the US general population the estimated background risk of major birth defects and
miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively.
Clinical Considerations
Disease-associated maternal and/or embryo/fetal risk
In women with poorly or moderately controlled asthma, evidence demonstrates that there is
an increased risk of preeclampsia in the mother and prematurity, low birth weight, and small
15
for gestational age in the neonate. The level of asthma control should be closely monitored
in pregnant women and treatment adjusted as necessary to maintain optimal control.
Data
Animal Data
Reproductive studies have been performed in Cynomolgus monkeys. There was no evidence
of maternal toxicity, embryotoxicity, or teratogenicity when omalizumab was administered
throughout the period of organogenesis at doses that produced exposures approximately 10
times the MHRD (on a mg/kg basis with maternal subcutaneous doses up to
75 mg/kg/week). Omalizumab did not elicit adverse effects on fetal or neonatal growth
when administered throughout late gestation, delivery, and nursing.
8.2 Lactation
Risk Summary
There is no information regarding the presence of omalizumab in human milk, the effects on
the breastfed infant, or the effects on milk production. However, omalizumab is a human
monoclonal antibody (IgG1 kappa), and immunoglobulin (IgG) is present in human milk in
small amounts. In Cynomolgus monkeys, neonatal serum levels of omalizumab after in utero
exposure and 28 days of nursing were between 11% and 94% of the maternal serum level.
Levels of omalizumab in milk were 0.15% of maternal serum concentration.
The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the
mother’s clinical need for Xolair and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed child
from omalizumab or from the underlying maternal condition.
8.4 Pediatric Use
Asthma
Safety and efficacy of Xolair for asthma were evaluated in 2 trials in 926 (Xolair 624;
placebo 302) pediatric patients 6 to <12 years of age with moderate to severe persistent
asthma who had a positive skin test or in vitro reactivity to a perennial aeroallergen. One
trial was a pivotal trial of similar design and conduct to that of adult and adolescent Asthma
Trials 1 and 2. The other trial was primarily a safety study and included evaluation of
efficacy as a secondary outcome. In the pivotal trial, Xolair-treated patients had a
statistically significant reduction in the rate of exacerbations (exacerbation was defined as
worsening of asthma that required treatment with systemic corticosteroids or a doubling of
the baseline ICS dose) [see Clinical Studies (14.1)].
Safety and efficacy in pediatric patients with asthma below 6 years of age have not been
established.
Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria
The safety and effectiveness of Xolair for adolescent patients with CIU were evaluated in 39
patients 12 to 17 years of age (Xolair 29, placebo 10) included in three randomized, placebo-
controlled CIU trials. A numerical decrease in weekly itch score was observed, and adverse
reactions were similar to those reported in patients 18 years and older.
16
Safety and efficacy in pediatric patients with CIU below 12 years of age have not been
established.
8.5 Geriatric Use
In clinical studies 134 asthma patients and 37 CIU phase 3 study patients 65 years of age or
older were treated with Xolair. Although there were no apparent age-related differences
observed in these studies, the number of patients aged 65 and over is not sufficient to
determine whether they respond differently from younger patients.
10 OVERDOSAGE
The maximum tolerated dose of Xolair has not been determined. Single intravenous doses of
up to 4,000 mg have been administered to patients without evidence of dose limiting
toxicities. The highest cumulative dose administered to patients was 44,000 mg over a
20 week period, which was not associated with toxicities.
11 DESCRIPTION
Xolair is a recombinant DNA-derived humanized IgG1 monoclonal antibody that
selectively binds to human immunoglobulin E (IgE). The antibody has a molecular weight of
approximately 149 kiloDaltons. Xolair is produced by a Chinese hamster ovary cell
suspension culture in a nutrient medium containing the antibiotic gentamicin. Gentamicin is
not detectable in the final product.
Xolair is a sterile, white, preservative free, lyophilized powder contained in a single use vial
that is reconstituted with Sterile Water for Injection (SWFI), USP, and administered as a
subcutaneous (SC) injection. Each 202.5 mg vial of omalizumab also contains L-histidine
(1.8 mg), L-histidine hydrochloride monohydrate (2.8 mg), polysorbate 20 (0.5 mg) and
sucrose (145.5 mg) and is designed to deliver 150 mg of omalizumab in 1.2 mL after
reconstitution with 1.4 mL SWFI, USP.
12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY
12.1 Mechanism of Action
Asthma
Omalizumab inhibits the binding of IgE to the high-affinity IgE receptor (FcRI) on the
surface of mast cells and basophils. Reduction in surface-bound IgE on FcRI-bearing cells
limits the degree of release of mediators of the allergic response. Treatment with Xolair also
reduces the number of FcRI receptors on basophils in atopic patients.
Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria
Omalizumab binds to IgE and lowers free IgE levels. Subsequently, IgE receptors (FcεRI) on
cells down-regulate. The mechanism by which these effects of omalizumab result in an
improvement of CIU symptoms is unknown.
12.2 Pharmacodynamics
17
Asthma
In clinical studies, serum free IgE levels were reduced in a dose dependent manner within
1 hour following the first dose and maintained between doses. Mean serum free IgE decrease
was greater than 96% using recommended doses. Serum total IgE levels (i.e., bound and
unbound) increased after the first dose due to the formation of omalizumab:IgE complexes,
which have a slower elimination rate compared with free IgE. At 16 weeks after the first
dose, average serum total IgE levels were five-fold higher compared with pre-treatment when
using standard assays. After discontinuation of Xolair dosing, the Xolair-induced increase in
total IgE and decrease in free IgE were reversible, with no observed rebound in IgE levels
after drug washout. Total IgE levels did not return to pre-treatment levels for up to one year
after discontinuation of Xolair.
Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria
In clinical studies in CIU patients, Xolair treatment led to a dose-dependent reduction of
serum free IgE and an increase of serum total IgE levels, similar to the observations in
asthma patients. Maximum suppression of free IgE was observed 3 days following the first
subcutaneous dose. After repeat dosing once every 4 weeks, predose serum free IgE levels
remained stable between 12 and 24 weeks of treatment. Total IgE levels in serum increased
after the first dose due to the formation of omalizumab-IgE complexes which have a slower
elimination rate compared with free IgE. After repeat dosing once every 4 weeks at 75 mg
up to 300 mg, average predose serum total IgE levels at Week 12 were two-to three-fold
higher compared with pre-treatment levels, and remained stable between 12 and 24 weeks of
treatment. After discontinuation of Xolair dosing, free IgE levels increased and total IgE
levels decreased towards pre-treatment levels over a 16-week follow-up period.
12.3 Pharmacokinetics
After SC administration, omalizumab was absorbed with an average absolute bioavailability
of 62%. Following a single SC dose in adult and adolescent patients with asthma,
omalizumab was absorbed slowly, reaching peak serum concentrations after an average of 7-
8 days. In patients with CIU, the peak serum concentration was reached at a similar time
after a single SC dose. The pharmacokinetics of omalizumab was linear at doses greater than
0.5 mg/kg. In patients with asthma, following multiple doses of Xolair, areas under the
serum concentration-time curve from Day 0 to Day 14 at steady state were up to 6-fold of
those after the first dose. In patients with CIU, omalizumab exhibited linear
pharmacokinetics across the dose range of 75 mg to 600 mg given as single subcutaneous
dose. Following repeat dosing from 75 to 300 mg every 4 weeks, trough serum
concentrations of omalizumab increased proportionally with the dose levels.
In vitro, omalizumab formed complexes of limited size with IgE. Precipitating complexes
and complexes larger than 1 million daltons in molecular weight were not observed in vitro
or in vivo. Tissue distribution studies in Cynomolgus monkeys showed no specific uptake of 125
I-omalizumab by any organ or tissue. The apparent volume of distribution of omalizumab
in patients with asthma following SC administration was 78 ± 32 mL/kg. In patients with
CIU, based on population pharmacokinetics, distribution of omalizumab was similar to that
in patients with asthma.
18
Clearance of omalizumab involved IgG clearance processes as well as clearance via specific
binding and complex formation with its target ligand, IgE. Liver elimination of IgG included
degradation in the liver reticuloendothelial system (RES) and endothelial cells. Intact IgG
was also excreted in bile. In studies with mice and monkeys, omalizumab:IgE complexes
were eliminated by interactions with Fc receptors within the RES at rates that were
generally faster than IgG clearance. In asthma patients omalizumab serum elimination
half-life averaged 26 days, with apparent clearance averaging 2.4 ± 1.1 mL/kg/day.
Doubling body weight approximately doubled apparent clearance. In CIU patients, at steady
state, based on population pharmacokinetics, omalizumab serum elimination half-life
averaged 24 days and apparent clearance averaged 240 mL/day (corresponding to 3.0
mL/kg/day for an 80 kg patient).
Special Populations
Asthma
The population pharmacokinetics of omalizumab was analyzed to evaluate the effects of
demographic characteristics in patients with asthma. Analyses of these data suggested that
no dose adjustments are necessary for age (6-76 years), race, ethnicity, or gender.
Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria
The population pharmacokinetics of omalizumab was analyzed to evaluate the effects of
demographic characteristics and other factors on omalizumab exposure in patients with CIU.
Covariate effects were evaluated by analyzing the relationship between omalizumab
concentrations and clinical responses. These analyses demonstrate that no dose adjustments
are necessary for age (12 to 75 years), race/ethnicity, gender, body weight, body mass index
or baseline IgE level.
13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY
13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility
No long-term studies have been performed in animals to evaluate the carcinogenic potential
of Xolair.
There were no effects on fertility and reproductive performance in male and female
Cynomolgus monkeys that received Xolair at subcutaneous doses up to 75 mg/kg/week
(approximately 10 times the maximum recommended human dose on a mg/kg basis).
14 CLINICAL STUDIES
14.1 Asthma
Adult and Adolescent Patients 12 Years of Age and Older
The safety and efficacy of Xolair were evaluated in three randomized, double-blind,
placebo-controlled, multicenter trials.
The trials enrolled patients 12 to 76 years old, with moderate to severe persistent (NHLBI
criteria) asthma for at least one year, and a positive skin test reaction to a perennial
19
aeroallergen. In all trials, Xolair dosing was based on body weight and baseline serum total
IgE concentration. All patients were required to have a baseline IgE between 30 and
700 IU/mL and body weight not more than 150 kg. Patients were treated according to a
dosing table to administer at least 0.016 mg/kg/IU (IgE/mL) of Xolair or a matching volume
of placebo over each 4-week period. The maximum Xolair dose per 4 weeks was 750 mg.
In all three trials an exacerbation was defined as a worsening of asthma that required
treatment with systemic corticosteroids or a doubling of the baseline ICS dose. Most
exacerbations were managed in the out-patient setting and the majority were treated with
systemic steroids. Hospitalization rates were not significantly different between Xolair and
placebo-treated patients; however, the overall hospitalization rate was small. Among those
patients who experienced an exacerbation, the distribution of exacerbation severity was
similar between treatment groups.
Asthma Trials 1 and 2
At screening, patients in Asthma Trials 1 and 2 had a forced expiratory volume in one second
(FEV1) between 40% and 80% predicted. All patients had a FEV1 improvement of at least
12% following beta2-agonist administration. All patients were symptomatic and were being
treated with inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) and short acting beta2-agonists. Patients receiving
other concomitant controller medications were excluded, and initiation of additional
controller medications while on study was prohibited. Patients currently smoking were
excluded.
Each trial was comprised of a run-in period to achieve a stable conversion to a common ICS
(beclomethasone dipropionate), followed by randomization to Xolair or placebo. Patients
received Xolair for 16 weeks with an unchanged corticosteroid dose unless an acute
exacerbation necessitated an increase. Patients then entered an ICS reduction phase of
12 weeks during which ICS dose reduction was attempted in a step-wise manner.
The distribution of the number of asthma exacerbations per patient in each group during a
study was analyzed separately for the stable steroid and steroid-reduction periods.
In both Asthma Trials 1 and 2 the number of exacerbations per patient was reduced in
patients treated with Xolair compared with placebo (Table 7).
Measures of airflow (FEV1) and asthma symptoms were also evaluated in these trials. The
clinical relevance of the treatment-associated differences is unknown. Results from the
stable steroid phase Asthma Trial 1 are shown in Table 8. Results from the stable steroid
phase of Asthma Trial 2 and the steroid reduction phases of both Asthma Trials 1 and 2 were
similar to those presented in Table 8.
20
Table 7. Frequency of Asthma Exacerbations per Patient by Phase in Trials 1 and 2
Stable Steroid Phase (16 wks)
Asthma Trial 1 Asthma Trial 2
Exacerbations per
patient
Xolair
N = 268
Placebo
N = 257
Xolair
N = 274
Placebo
N = 272
0 85.8% 76.7% 87.6% 69.9%
1 11.9% 16.7% 11.3% 25.0%
≥ 2 2.2% 6.6% 1.1% 5.1%
p-Value 0.005 < 0.001
Mean number
exacerbations/patient
0.2 0.3 0.1 0.4
Steroid Reduction Phase (12 wks)
Exacerbations per
patient
Xolair
N = 268
Placebo
N = 257
Xolair
N = 274
Placebo
N = 272
0 78.7% 67.7% 83.9% 70.2%
1 19.0% 28.4% 14.2% 26.1%
≥ 2 2.2% 3.9% 1.8% 3.7%
p-Value 0.004 < 0.001
Mean number
exacerbations/patient
0.2 0.4 0.2 0.3
Table 8. Asthma Symptoms and Pulmonary Function During
Stable Steroid Phase of Trial 1
Xolair
N = 268*
Placebo
N = 257*
Endpoint
Mean
Baseline
Median Change
(Baseline to Wk 16)
Mean
Baseline
Median Change
(Baseline to Wk 16)
Total asthma symptom score 4.3 –1.5† 4.2 –1.1
†
Nocturnal asthma score 1.2 –0.4† 1.1 –0.2
†
Daytime asthma score 2.3 –0.9† 2.3 –0.6
†
FEV1 % predicted 68 3† 68 0
†
Asthma symptom scale: total score from 0 (least) to 9 (most); nocturnal and daytime scores from 0 (least) to 4
(most symptoms). * Number of patients available for analysis ranges 255-258 in the Xolair group and 238-239 in the placebo
group. † Comparison of Xolair versus placebo (p < 0.05).
21
Asthma Trial 3
In Asthma Trial 3, there was no restriction on screening FEV1, and unlike Asthma Trials 1
and 2, long-acting beta2-agonists were allowed. Patients were receiving at least 1000 g/day
fluticasone propionate and a subset was also receiving oral corticosteroids. Patients
receiving other concomitant controller medications were excluded, and initiation of
additional controller medications while on study was prohibited. Patients currently smoking
were excluded.
The trial was comprised of a run-in period to achieve a stable conversion to a common ICS
(fluticasone propionate), followed by randomization to Xolair or placebo. Patients were
stratified by use of ICS-only or ICS with concomitant use of oral steroids. Patients received
Xolair for 16 weeks with an unchanged corticosteroid dose unless an acute exacerbation
necessitated an increase. Patients then entered an ICS reduction phase of 16 weeks during
which ICS or oral steroid dose reduction was attempted in a step-wise manner.
The number of exacerbations in patients treated with Xolair was similar to that in placebo-
treated patients (Table 9). The absence of an observed treatment effect may be related to
differences in the patient population compared with Asthma Trials 1 and 2, study sample
size, or other factors.
Table 9. Percentage of Patients with Asthma Exacerbations by Subgroup and
Phase in Trial 3
Stable Steroid Phase (16 wks)
Inhaled Only Oral + Inhaled
Xolair
N = 126
Placebo
N = 120
Xolair
N = 50
Placebo
N = 45
% Patients
with ≥ 1
exacerbations
15.9% 15.0% 32.0% 22.2%
Difference
(95% CI)
0.9
(–9.7, 13.7)
9.8
(–10.5, 31.4)
Steroid Reduction Phase (16 wks)
Xolair
N = 126
Placebo
N = 120
Xolair
N = 50
Placebo
N = 45
% Patients
with ≥ 1
exacerbations
22.2% 26.7% 42.0% 42.2%
Difference
(95% CI)
–4.4
(–17.6, 7.4)
–0.2
(–22.4, 20.1)
In all three of the trials, a reduction of asthma exacerbations was not observed in the Xolair-
treated patients who had FEV1 > 80% at the time of randomization. Reductions in
exacerbations were not seen in patients who required oral steroids as maintenance therapy.
22
Pediatric Patients 6 to < 12 Years of Age
The safety and efficacy of Xolair in pediatric patients 6 to <12 years of age with moderate to
severe asthma is based on one randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled, multi-center
trial (Trial 4) and an additional supportive study (Trial 5).
Trial 4 was a 52-week study that evaluated the safety and efficacy of Xolair as add-on
therapy in 628 pediatric patients ages 6 to <12 years with moderate to severe asthma
inadequately controlled despite the use of inhaled corticosteroids (fluticasone propionate DPI
≥200 mcg/day or equivalent) with or without other controller asthma medications. Eligible
patients were those with a diagnosis of asthma >1 year, a positive skin prick test to at least
one perennial aeroallergen, and a history of clinical features such as daytime and/or night-
time symptoms and exacerbations within the year prior to study entry. During the first 24
weeks of treatment, steroid doses remained constant from baseline. This was followed by a
28-week period during which inhaled corticosteroid adjustment was allowed.
The primary efficacy variable was the rate of asthma exacerbations during the 24-week, fixed
steroid treatment phase. An asthma exacerbation was defined as a worsening of asthma
symptoms as judged clinically by the investigator, requiring doubling of the baseline inhaled
corticosteroid dose for at least 3 days and/or treatment with rescue systemic (oral or IV)
corticosteroids for at least 3 days. At 24 weeks, the Xolair group had a statistically
significantly lower rate of asthma exacerbations (0.45 vs. 0.64) with an estimated rate ratio of
0.69 (95% CI: 0.53, 0.90).
The Xolair group also had a lower rate of asthma exacerbations compared to placebo over the
full 52-week double-blind treatment period (0.78 vs. 1.36; rate ratio: 0.57; 95% CI: 0.45,
0.72). Other efficacy variables such as nocturnal symptom scores, beta-agonist use, and
measures of airflow (FEV1) were not significantly different in Xolair-treated patients
compared to placebo.
Trial 5 was a 28-week randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled study that primarily
evaluated safety in 334 pediatric patients, 298 of whom were 6 to <12 years of age, with
moderate to severe asthma who were well-controlled with inhaled corticosteroids
(beclomethasone dipropionate 168-420 mcg/day). A 16-week steroid treatment period was
followed by a 12-week steroid dose reduction period. Patients treated with Xolair had fewer
asthma exacerbations compared to placebo during both the 16-week fixed steroid treatment
period (0.18 vs. 0.32; rate ratio: 0.58; 95% CI: 0.35, 0.96) and the 28-week treatment period
(0.38 vs. 0.76; rate ratio: 0.50; 95% CI: 0.36, 0.71).
14.2 Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria
Adult and Adolescent Patients 12 Years of Age and Older
The safety and efficacy of Xolair for the treatment of CIU was assessed in two placebo-
controlled, multiple-dose clinical trials of 24 weeks’ duration (CIU Trial 1; n= 319) and 12
weeks’ duration (CIU Trial 2; n=322). Patients received Xolair 75, 150, or 300 mg or
placebo by SC injection every 4 weeks in addition to their baseline level of H1 antihistamine
therapy for 24 or 12 weeks, followed by a 16-week washout observation period. A total of
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640 patients (165 males, 475 females) were included for the efficacy analyses. Most patients
were white (84%) and the median age was 42 years (range 12–72).
Disease severity was measured by a weekly urticaria activity score (UAS7, range 0–42),
which is a composite of the weekly itch severity score (range 0–21) and the weekly hive
count score (range 0–21). All patients were required to have a UAS7 of ≥ 16, and a weekly
itch severity score of ≥ 8 for the 7 days prior to randomization, despite having used an H1
antihistamine for at least 2 weeks.
The mean weekly itch severity scores at baseline were fairly balanced across treatment
groups and ranged between 13.7 and 14.5 despite use of an H1 antihistamine at an approved
dose. The reported median durations of CIU at enrollment across treatment groups were
between 2.5 and 3.9 years (with an overall subject-level range of 0.5 to 66.4 years).
In both CIU Trials 1 and 2, patients who received Xolair 150 mg or 300 mg had greater
decreases from baseline in weekly itch severity scores and weekly hive count scores than
placebo at Week 12. Representative results from CIU Trial 1 are shown (Table 10); similar
results were observed in CIU Trial 2. The 75-mg dose did not demonstrate consistent
evidence of efficacy and is not approved for use.
Table 10. Change from Baseline to Week 12 in Weekly Itch Severity Score and
Weekly Hive Count Score in CIU Trial 1 *
Xolair
75mg
Xolair
150mg
Xolair
300mg Placebo
n 77 80 81 80
Weekly Itch Severity Score
Mean Baseline Score (SD) 14.5 (3.6) 14.1 (3.8) 14.2 (3.3) 14.4 (3.5)
Mean Change Week 12(SD) -6.46 (6.14) -6.66 (6.28) -9.40 (5.73) -3.63 (5.22)
Difference in LS means vs.
placebo
-2.96 -2.95 -5.80
95% CI for difference −4.71, −1.21 −4.72, −1.18 −7.49, −4.10 -
Weekly Hive Count Score †
Mean Baseline Score (SD) 17.2 (4.2) 16.2 (4.6) 17.1 (3.8) 16.7 (4.4)
Mean Change Week 12(SD) -7.36 (7.52) -7.78 (7.08) -11.35 (7.25) -4.37 (6.60)
Difference in LS means vs.
placebo
-2.75 -3.44 -6.93
95% CI for difference −4.95, −0.54 −5.57, −1.32 −9.10, −4.76 -
* Modified intent-to-treat (mITT) population: all patients who were randomized and received at least one
dose of study medication. † Score measured on a range of 0–21
The mean weekly itch severity score at each study week by treatment groups is shown in
Figure 1. Representative results from CIU Trial 1 are shown; similar results were observed
in CIU Trial 2. The appropriate duration of therapy for CIU with Xolair has not been
determined.
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Figure 1. Mean Weekly Itch Severity Score by Treatment Group
Modified Intent to Treat Patients in CIU Trial 1
In CIU Trial 1, a larger proportion of patients treated with Xolair 300 mg (36%) reported no
itch and no hives (UAS7=0) at Week 12 compared to patients treated with Xolair 150 mg
(15%), Xolair 75 mg (12%), and placebo group (9%). Similar results were observed in CIU
Trial 2.
16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING
Xolair is supplied as a lyophilized, sterile powder in a single-use vial without preservatives.
Each vial delivers 150 mg of Xolair upon reconstitution with 1.4 mL SWFI, USP. Each
carton contains one single-use vial of Xolair® (omalizumab) NDC 50242-040-62.
Xolair should be shipped at controlled ambient temperature (≤ 30C [ ≤ 86F]). Store Xolair
under refrigerated conditions 2 to 8C (36 to 46F). Do not use beyond the expiration date
stamped on carton.
Use the solution for subcutaneous administration within 8 hours following reconstitution
when stored in the vial at 2 to 8C (36 to 46F), or within 4 hours of reconstitution when
stored at room temperature.
Reconstituted Xolair vials should be protected from direct sunlight.
17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION
See FDA-approved patient labeling (Medication Guide)
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Information for Patients
Provide and instruct patients to read the accompanying Medication Guide before starting
treatment and before each subsequent treatment. The complete text of the Medication Guide
is reprinted at the end of this document.
Inform patients of the risk of life-threatening anaphylaxis with Xolair including the following
points [see Boxed Warning and Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]:
There have been reports of anaphylaxis occurring up to 4 days after administration of
Xolair
Xolair should only be administered in a healthcare setting by healthcare providers
Patients should be closely observed following administration
Patients should be informed of the signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis
Patients should be instructed to seek immediate medical care should such signs or
symptoms occur
Instruct patients receiving Xolair not to decrease the dose of, or stop taking any other asthma
or CIU medications unless otherwise instructed by their physician. Inform patients that they
may not see immediate improvement in their asthma or CIU symptoms after beginning
Xolair therapy.
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MEDICATION GUIDE XOLAIR
®(ZOHL-air)
(omalizumab) injection, for subcutaneous use
What is the most important information I should know about XOLAIR? XOLAIR may cause serious side effects, including: Severe allergic reaction. A severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis can happen when you receive XOLAIR. The reaction can occur after the first dose, or after many doses. It may also occur right after a XOLAIR injection or days later. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening condition and can lead to death. Go to the nearest emergency room right away if you have any of these symptoms of an allergic reaction:
wheezing, shortness of breath, cough, chest tightness, or trouble breathing
low blood pressure, dizziness, fainting, rapid or weak heartbeat, anxiety, or feeling of “impending doom”
flushing, itching, hives, or feeling warm
swelling of the throat or tongue, throat tightness, hoarse voice, or trouble swallowing Your healthcare provider will monitor you closely for symptoms of an allergic reaction while you are receiving XOLAIR and for a period of time after your injection. Your healthcare provider should talk to you about getting medical treatment if you have symptoms of an allergic reaction after leaving the healthcare provider’s office or treatment center.
What is XOLAIR? XOLAIR is an injectable prescription medicine used to treat:
moderate to severe persistent asthma in patients 6 years of age and older whose asthma symptoms are not controlled by asthma medicines called inhaled corticosteroids. A skin or blood test is performed to see if you have allergies to year-round allergens.
chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU; chronic hives without a known cause) in patients 12 years of age and older who continue to have hives that are not controlled by H1 antihistamine treatment.
XOLAIR is not used to treat other allergic conditions, other forms of urticaria, acute bronchospasm or status asthmaticus.
Who should not receive XOLAIR? Do not receive XOLAIR if you:
are allergic to omalizumab or any of the ingredients. See the end of this Medication Guide for a complete list of ingredients in XOLAIR.
What should I tell my healthcare provider before receiving XOLAIR? Before receiving XOLAIR, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:
have any other allergies (such as food allergy or seasonal allergies)
have sudden breathing problems (bronchospasm)
have ever had a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis
have or have had a parasitic infection
have or have had cancer
are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if XOLAIR may harm your unborn baby.
are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if XOLAIR passes into your breast milk. Talk with your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby while you receive XOLAIR.
Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, or herbal supplements.
How should I receive XOLAIR?
XOLAIR should be given by your healthcare provider in a healthcare setting.
XOLAIR is given in 1 or more injections under the skin (subcutaneous), 1 time every 2 or 4 weeks.
In asthma patients, a blood test for a substance called IgE must be performed prior to starting XOLAIR to determine the appropriate dose and dosing frequency.
In patients with chronic hives, a blood test is not necessary to determine the dose or dosing
27
frequency.
Do not decrease or stop taking any of your other asthma or hive medicine unless your healthcare providers tell you to.
You may not see improvement in your symptoms right away after XOLAIR treatment.
What are the possible side effects of XOLAIR? XOLAIR may cause serious side effects, including:
See “What is the most important information I should know about XOLAIR?”
Cancer. Cases of cancer were observed in some people who received XOLAIR.
Inflammation of your blood vessels. Rarely, this can happen in people with asthma who receive XOLAIR. This usually, but not always, happens in people who also take a steroid medicine by mouth that is being stopped or the dose is being lowered. It is not known whether this is caused by XOLAIR. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have: o rash o shortness of breath
o chest pain o a feeling of pins and needles or numbness of your
arms or legs
Fever, muscle aches, and rash. Some people who take XOLAIR get these symptoms 1 to 5 days after receiving a XOLAIR injection. If you have any of these symptoms, tell your healthcare provider.
Parasitic infection. Some people who are at a high risk for parasite (worm) infections, get a parasite infection after receiving XOLAIR. Your healthcare provider can test your stool to check if you have a parasite infection.
Heart and circulation problems. Some people who receive XOLAIR have had chest pain, heart attack, blood clots in the lungs or legs, or temporary symptoms of weakness on one side of the body, slurred speech, or altered vision. It is not known whether these are caused by XOLAIR.
The most common side effects of XOLAIR:
In adults and children 12 years of age and older with asthma: pain especially in your arms and legs, dizziness, feeling tired, skin rash, bone fractures, and pain or discomfort of your ears.
In children 6 to less than 12 years of age with asthma: common cold symptoms, headache, fever, sore throat, pain or discomfort of your ear, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and nose bleeds.
In people with chronic idiopathic urticaria: nausea, headaches, swelling of the inside of your nose, throat or sinuses, cough, joint pain, and upper respiratory tract infection.
These are not all the possible side effects of XOLAIR. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
General information about the safe and effective use of XOLAIR. Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Medication Guide. If you would like more information, talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist. You can ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider for information about XOLAIR that is written for health professionals. Do not use XOLAIR for a condition for which it was not prescribed. For more information, go to www.xolair.com or call 1-866-4XOLAIR (1-866-496-5247).
What are the ingredients in XOLAIR? Active ingredient: omalizumab Inactive ingredients: L-histidine, L-histidine hydrochloride monohydrate, polysorbate 20 and sucrose Manufactured by: Genentech, Inc. A Member of the Roche Group. 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080-4990. Jointly marketed by: Genentech USA, Inc. A Member of the Roche Group, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080-4990 Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, One Health Plaza, East Hanover, NJ 07936-1080 Xolair® is a registered trademark of Novartis AG. ©2017 Genentech USA, Inc.
This Medication Guide has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Revised:6/2017